Beta Group - Abbe Rubin, Aanika Boylan, Tricia Duell, Mary Denunzio
Parents are one of the greatest influential factors in children's lives. The ways in which parents involve themselves in the school lives of their children can significantly affect a student's overall educational experience. Choices parents make such as working inside or outside the home, structuring activities, volunteering at achool and over-involving themselves in the school lives of their children are issues all parents of school-age children encounter at some point. The positive and negative aspects of these choices and the impact they can have on the lives of children are addressed in this pathfinder. Resources for parents and teachers in the form of websites, journal articles, books and videos are presented here to assist in guiding adults to make choices that will benefit and enhance the school lives of their children. MD
Essential Question #1:
How can parents become involved in their children's education by volunteering, and what effect can volunteering have on the children and the school? AR
Keywords: volunteering, parental involvement
Essential Question #2:
What immediate and long-term impact does the helicopter parenting style have on a student’s experience in school? AB
Keywords: parenting, education, relationships
Essential Question #3:
How do after school activities affect the lives of children? When are children over-scheduled and how does that relate to their school lives? TD
Keywords: after school activities, overscheduled children
Essential Question #4:
In what ways does maternal employment or non-employment impact children's behavior, emotional stability and school achievement? MD
How parents can become involved in their children's education by volunteering, and what effect volunteering can have on the children and the school. AR
Websites:
About.com -The Power of Saying, "No", by Linda D. Tillman, PhD
Burke, M. A. (2001). Recruiting and using volunteers in meaningful ways in secondary schools. NASSP Bulletin, 85,627, 46-52.
This article examines types and levels of parent involvement in middle and high schools. It offers strategies for recruiting volunteers, since parent involvement typically declines as students get older and gain more autonomy. The article also discusses how parent volunteers at schools can nurture academic success. AR
Dillon, N. (2008). The parent trap. American School Board Journal, 195, 2, 30-31.
This article discusses the need for parents to take an active role in schools. A school in Tennessee worked with parents to translate organizational materials into Spanish, among other projects. The PTO of the school held a number of free events in the evenings in order to recruit parent volunteers. The article also discusses the importance of using parents to improve the educational outcomes of the students. AR
Frankel, H. Voluntary aided. (2009, May 15). Times Educational Supplement, special section.
This article discusses what schools can do to encourage parent participation at school, and how volunteering promotes social cohesion. The article tells how some local companies allow their employees time to volunteer, and what some schools have done to improve literacy through tutoring by parent volunteers. AR
Machen, S. M., Wilson, J. D., & Notar, C. E. (2005). Parental involvement in the classroom. Journal of Instructional Psychology, 32, 1, 13-16.
This article states that parental involvement in schools is an important factor in pushing school systems toward higher standards. The article address the amount of time that parents can and should spend in the classroom, and the type of contact that they have with students and teachers. In addition, the article states that school leaders must develop parent-involvement programs and identify practices and policies that encourage parent trust and involvement in the process of schooling. AR
Porter DeCusati, C. L., & Johnson, J. E. (2004). Parents as classroom volunteers and kindergarten students' emergent reading skills. Journal of Educational Research, 97, 5, 235-246.
This article investigates the effect of parent volunteers on kindergarten children's emergent literacy performance. The authors studies a group of children in a PA school and how they responded to parent-lead small-group language enrichment sessions. Based on the results of the study, the authors recommend working with parents in the classroom. The authors also interviewed the children about their reactions to having parents in the classroom. AR
Books:
Batey, C. S. (1996). Parents are lifesavers: A handbook for parent involvement in schools. Newbury Park, CA: Corwin Press.
The author offers real-life skills and tips that schools can use to turn parents into active participants in their childrens' education. AR
Boult, B. (2006). 176 ways to involve parents: Practical strategies for partnering with families. Newbury Park, CA: Corwin Press.
It is important to align school district and school volunteer activities. This book presents ready-to-use ideas and strategies to involve parents in the school community. AR
Funkhouser, J., & Gonzalez, M. R. (1997). Family involvement in children's education: Successful local approaches:An idea book. Darby, PA: Diane Publishing Co.
This book describes how some schools and their communities have overcome barriers to forge strong school-family relationships. The book is based on case studies of 20 successful education programs in the U.S. AR
Mandel, S. (2008). The parent-teacher partnership: How to work together for student achievement. Chicago, IL: Chicago Review Press.
This books offers a chapter about volunteering. The chapers discusses the pros and cons of parent volunteers, and tips for both parents and teachers for how to make volunteering successful. AR
The immediate and long-term impact that the helicopter parenting style can have on a student’s experience in school. AB
Websites:
Baby Zone - Are you a helicopter parent? by Stephanie Elliot
http://www.babyzone.com/mom_dad/quiz/helicopter-parent Take the quiz offered at this website to find out if you're hovering too much already. Along with blog entries that develop an open conversation about the potential pitfalls of being an overly involved parent, this site helps parents to determine if they are headed in that direction with their toddler aged children already. Acknowledging that you are on the road to being a helicopter parent may help to curb that behavior or enhance it. AB
New York Times - Lisa Belkin blog from March 4, 2009
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/04/in-defense-of-helicopter-parents/ Lisa Belkin has several articles and blogspots on the Internet relating to the issue of helicopter parenting and all the good, bad and ugly that it conjures up. In this blog area she explores the questions: Are you a helicopter parent? Are you wary of becoming one? And does any of this new thinking make you feel any better? On this blog she cites several authorities including psychologists, tenured teachers, and social historians. There is a reference to both the pros and cons of this parenting style. AB
Surf Net Parents - Pros and cons of helicopter parenting
http://www.surfnetparents.com/pros_and_cons_of_helicopter_parenting-6033.html This is a website that offers a specific article on the pros and cons of helicopter parenting as it relates to school aged children, along with other several resources & information links regarding the general upbringing of children in today’s society. Some of the content areas included on the site consist of: parenting kids, parenting teens, helping with homework, relationships, and family health issues. This site is a good resource for a myriad of parenting issues. AB
Articles:
Gibbs, N. (2005, February 13). Parents behaving badly, inside the new classroom power struggle: What teachers say about pushy moms and dads who drive them crazy. Time.
An exemplary view of the impact hovering /helicopter parents on the classroom experience, this article emphasizes the importance of the relationship that exists between parents, children and the teacher. Teachers explain through a series of examples of actual events, the challenges they face in trying to educate students that have helicopter parents. In this article the author and teachers describe additional attributes of hovering parents that classifies them further into such categories as ‘aggressive advocates’, ‘public defenders’ and ‘culture warriors’. AB
This article examines the long-term effects of helicopter parenting. Krache discusses how micromanaging every aspect of their children’s lives stifles development of decision making skills, provides a false sense of security, can promote rebellion, promotes a sense of entitlement and having a parent that just can’t let go can create embarrassment for the child. Through conversations with a variety of sources, Krache mostly explores the negative aspects related to helicopter parenting and offers only a little information on how to reap benefits from the hovering parenting style. AB
Krane, E. (2009). What is a helicopter parent, and do you qualify? Lifescript.com. Retrieved from
How can you tell if you’re a helicopter parent? This website offers a series of questions for you to ponder to help you identify if you are or are not a helicopter type parent. The site explains that, “helicopter parenting brings a sense of security to some parents, who want to keep their children close as long as possible, if not indefinitely. Micromanaging their life is one way they can maintain a close relationship, while appearing to be a saint. It’s a win-win situation, in the parents’ eyes.” AB
“If that's true, and the number of helicopter parents really is increasing as experts assert, it may have ramifications for everyone involved, including not just parents and their kids, but educators and employers, as well.” This excerpt from the article adequately summarizes the author’s suggestion that the impact of helicopter parenting on a child extends beyond the parent-child relationship and affects the relationships between the parent, child and teacher. Additionally, this article cites several authorities regarding the positive and negative effects of the hovering parent upon their child. AB
Wong, W. (2008). The power of play: How spontaneous, imaginative activities lead to happier, healthier children. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 47, 9.
This is an article that includes a review of the book The Power of Play by David Elkind. In Wong’s article there is reference to the importance of a parent’s involvement with their children during the formative years. There is a connection between the behavior and attitudes of the parent and how they interact with their child that directs the development and acquisition of skills by the child. The notion that helicopter parenting can negatively impact the mental growth of the child from the very start of development is touched upon. AB
Books:
Cline, F., & Fay, J. (1990). Parenting with love and logic: Teaching children responsibility. Bedford, OH: Pinon Press.
This is the book that is credited with defining ‘helicopter parent’. It is lauded as premier guide for providing practical parenting skills. The authors offer many strategies for applying their suggested methods, called ‘parenting pearls’, to actual day to day situations between parent and child. This book helps parents teach their children about responsibility and the logic of life by solving their own problems and providing skills to help them cope in the real world. AB
Elkind, D. (2007). The power of play: How spontaneous, imaginative activities lead to happier, healthier children. Cambridge, MA: De Capo Press.
In his book, Elkind expresses his concern that parents have misconceptions about how young children learn. He explores parent-child relationships and includes helicopter/hovering parents in his discussion. His argument is founded on the notion that child-directed play addresses developmentally appropriate needs. Children will naturally explore those phenomena that interest them and they will do this in their own time and on their own terms. Influence of premature structured learning or overbearing guidance by parents disrupts this natural learning ability and may negatively impact a child’s development. AB
How after school activities affect the lives of children. When children are over-scheduled and how that relates to their school lives. TD
Websites:
Families on-the-go - The overscheduled child, byDr. Bhumi Upadhyay
http://www.familiesonthego.org/Health-And-Wellness/the-overscheduled-child.htm Dr. Upadhyay explains how stress and depression are related to children that are involved in too many after school activities. The importance of imaginative play are stressed as being equally important in the development of a child. TD
News from the University of Missouri - Overscheduled children under stress, by Lisa Wallace
http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/ext/showall.asp?story_num=4806&iln=47Lisa Wallace offers tips to parents on how to build a solid foundation for their children’s academic learning environment. "When you find yourself drowning in carpools and a crowded calendar, you're not alone. But be realistic about what is important. Really look at your family's schedule, then ease up and scale back so your child isn't overscheduled." (Wallace, 2009) TD
American Academy of Pediatrics - How can we help our children handle the stresses of everyday life?
http://www.aap.org/publiced/BK5_Stress.htmThis site identifies where stresses can occur in a child’s life. Current changes in family structure and financial concerns cause children to be enrolled in many after school activities. The AAP suggest that parents believe the children are not aware of the stresses that they feel and can adapt easily to new activities. However, children are often overwhelmed with a need to achieve and never get the down time that is needed for complete growth and development. TD
Associated Content - Six benefits of after-school activities, by Charles Davidson
Cosden, M. & Morrison, G. (2004). The effects of homework programs and after-school activities on school success.Theory into Practice, 43.
This article explains the risk and protective factors associated with after school activities and homework programs. Advantages include how after school programs increase school achievement and improve social skills when directly related to the school environment. Disadvantages are also present, as parents may not be involved in their children’s school experience if they expect the activity to take the place of the parent. TD
Elkind, D. & Cloud, J. (2007). The overscheduled child? Chronicle of Higher Education. 53, 28, B4.
This article offers several viewpoints to answer the question of whether or not U.S. children are overscheduled. John Cloud finds little evidence that many activities are hurting children and considers the question to be directed more at the adult’s issues and not the child. David Elkind and the American Academy of Pediatrics take a different view, and suggest that children have lost valuable play time to rigors of academic work and too many scheduled activities. TD
Books:
Rosenfeld, A. & Wise, N. (2001). The over-scheduled child: Avoiding the hyper-parenting trap. Boston: St. Martin's Griffin.
This book provides a wake up call to parents everywhere. Our society today provides a great amount of pressure to keep our children involved in as many activities as the day is long. Drs. Rosenfeld and Wise offer some different advice and encourage parents to spend quality time with their children instead of the over achieving and fast paced life that are more often the norm. TD
Pierce, A. (2009). Ships without a shore. Transaction Publishers.
Coming out in August 2009, this book is sure to provide you with the latest information on how to provide a nurturing home for your child. Anne Pierce explains how changing trends in America may be contributing to weaker foundations for our children to grow upon. This book takes and honest look at how the lessons from sports and after school activities have become more important than the traditional maternal and nurturing instincts of the past. TD
YouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXkay5NUTHk Joe Bruzzese explains how children in middle school adapt to after-school activities. Strategies are offered on how to handle the schedule and identify warning signs of when your child is overscheduled. TD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYWW36m_cW4Momversations about overscheduled children: Three mothers of young pre-school and early elementary aged children talk about their experiences with activities their children are involved in. Concerns are expressed about how other mothers will view them, financial concerns and what the benefits to the programs are. TD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7JWCmzKK34New York Now anchor Cathleen Trigg-Jones speaks with a panel of experts discussing the subject of overscheduling children. Dr. Christine Doyle, director of Clinical Services at the Albert Ellis Institute, Professor of Psychology at CUNY and Author, Dr. William Craine and mother, Kamyra Harding discuss the effects of many activities on children. Overscheduling occurs as early as the first birthday and continues throughout the years of a child’s education. Especially in the New York area, there is push to succeed and over-achieve in hopes for a better future. The advantage of having free-time and using their minds to create time-filling activities are stressed as important factors in a child’s emotional well being. TD
The conversation is continued here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTv7H9sIaEQ
How maternal employment or non-employment impacts children's behavior, emotional stability and school achievement. MD
Websites:
Workingmother.com
http://www.workingmother.comThis website is sponsored by Working Mother Magazine, and presents information on a large array of issues relating to mothers who work outside the home. Relevant issues such as teens and technology and how to best care for a child with special needs are discussed and there are a variety of forums and blogs where mothers can interact with each other and gain support. A list of resources to assist the working mother is provided as well as conferences that are being held in different areas. MD
Familyeducation - Working mothers
http://life.familyeducation.com/mothers/working-parents/34415.htmlInformation relating to children of varying ages and grade levels is provided on this site. Users can access printables of homework sheets to assist their children on specific grade-appropriate topics, they can utilize tools such as a Multiple Intelligence Screening Tool and a Reading Readiness Screening Tool and can discuss other school related topics with other working mothers through blogs and forums. MD
About.com - Stay-at-home parents
http://www.homeparents.about.comThis site addresses many topics related to stay at home mothers and fathers. It's 'Education and School Tips' section addresses issues such as recognizing Dyslexia, behavior issues and homework hassles. It also tackles issues such as enrolling one's child in year round school and what to do when a teacher suggests that a child be tested for a learning disability. Through blogs, parents can interact with each other and share ideas. MD
MainStreetMom.com - Stay-at-home Moms
http://www.mainstreetmom.comThis website is geared towards stay-at-home mothers who want to remain current on all topics relating to child care, education, parenting and others. Issues such as talking to your child about difficult subjects, and ensuring that your child becomes a life-long reader are discussed in the 'Teaching' section of this site. MD
Articles:
Baker, K., Beck, C.A., Camp, K., Censullo, E., Collins, C., Deitrick, S., et al. (2003). The relationship between maternal employment and perceptions of child, spouse and self. (Report NumberCG032145). Collegeville, PA: Ursinus College(ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 472 514).
This article investigates whether maternal employment has any effect on the ways in which parents view their children's personalities, dispositions and behaviors. Findings of the study conducted in the article reveal no difference in parents' perceptions of their childrens' academic achievement or level of self-esteem, but reveal that children whose mothers stay at home are perceived as being more anxious and more manipulative, especially in the case of boys and somewhat more depressed in the case of girls. MD
Goldberg, W.A., Greenberger, E., & Nagel, S.K. (1996). Employment and achievement: Mothers' work involvement in relation to children's achievement behaviors and mothers' parenting behaviors. Child Development, 67, 1512-1527.
This article studies the correlation between mothers' total weekly work hours in relation to children's achievement and behaviors. The results indicate that as weekly work hours increase, daughters' grades and overall achievement motivation improve. However, as weekly work hours of the mother increase, the work habits and ego control of sons decreased, indicating that the presence of maternal employment was beneficial to daughters of working mothers, but was detrimental to sons. MD
Goldberg, W.A., Prause, J., & Lucas-Thompson, R. (2008). Maternal employment and children's achievement in context: A meta-analysis of four decades of research. Psychological Bulletin, 134, 1, 77-108.
An analysis of 68 prior studies is utilized to determine whether children's achivement differs depending on whether their mothers work outside the home. Overall results show that mothers who work provide a positive role model for daughters and allow their daughters more independence than stay-at-home mothers might. This lack of maternal supervision however, yields some negative results for sons, who tend to act out more when the mother is not at home to monitor their behaviors. Maternal employment is shown to have no effect on overall student achievement. MD
Harvey. E. (1999). Short-term and long-term effects of early parental employment on children of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. Developmental Psychology, 35, 2, 445-459.
This long term study attempts to discover whether early maternal employment (before children reached the age of 9), has any impact on later development and functioning. The findings are that children with working mothers exhibit slightly lower cognitive development and achievement levels from the ages of 7-9, but by age 10 and beyond, no significant differences can be found. There is some support for the idea that early maternal employment affects children's development positively due to the increase in family income that it provides. MD
Books:
Carreon, S. (1996). Women and work: A handbook (Garland Reference Library of Social Science, V. 679). New York: Routledge.
This is a collection of 150 original articles that examine issues relating to working mothers. It is a reference guide to be used by professors, librarians, guidance counselors, students and working mothers. Factors such as the effects of maternal employment and child care are covered in depth. MD
Schlessinger, L. (2009). In praise of stay-at-home moms. New York: Harper Collins.
Advice and support is provided for women who have left the workplace to be stay-at-home mothers by the author, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist. The book expresses the positive effects that remaining at home can have on children and the family as a whole. MD
*All web links were checked and current as of July 12, 2009. All citations are in APA format.*
Parents are one of the greatest influential factors in children's lives. The ways in which parents involve themselves in the school lives of their children can significantly affect a student's overall educational experience. Choices parents make such as working inside or outside the home, structuring activities, volunteering at achool and over-involving themselves in the school lives of their children are issues all parents of school-age children encounter at some point. The positive and negative aspects of these choices and the impact they can have on the lives of children are addressed in this pathfinder. Resources for parents and teachers in the form of websites, journal articles, books and videos are presented here to assist in guiding adults to make choices that will benefit and enhance the school lives of their children. MD
Essential Question #1:
How can parents become involved in their children's education by volunteering, and what effect can volunteering have on the children and the school? AR
Keywords: volunteering, parental involvementEssential Question #2:
What immediate and long-term impact does the helicopter parenting style have on a student’s experience in school? AB
Keywords: parenting, education, relationshipsEssential Question #3:
How do after school activities affect the lives of children? When are children over-scheduled and how does that relate to their school lives? TD
Keywords: after school activities, overscheduled childrenEssential Question #4:
In what ways does maternal employment or non-employment impact children's behavior, emotional stability and school achievement? MD
Keywords: working mother (or parent), stay-at-home mother (or parent), {and} student achievementHow parents can become involved in their children's education by volunteering, and what effect volunteering can have on the children and the school. AR
Websites:
About.com - The Power of Saying, "No", by Linda D. Tillman, PhD
http://marriage.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ&sdn=marriage&cdn=people&tm=86&gps=145_28_1259_597&f=00&su=p284.9.336.ip_&tt=2&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.selfgrowth.com/articles/tillman6.htmlIn this article, Dr. Tillman teaches parents how to say "no" to volunteering when they really shouldn't say "yes". AR
Familyfun - How Working Parents Can Volunteer at School, by Susan Crites Price and Tom Price
http://familyfun.go.com/parenting/learn/teacher/feature/dony87prvolunteer/Many working parents would like to help out at school, even though they may not be available during the day. This article offers suggestions for how working parents can volunteer. AR
Greatschools - Parent Involvement Primer
http://www.greatschools.net/improvement/volunteering/parent-involvement-primer.gs?content=366The site has a range of resources for parents who would like to get involved at their child's school but aren't sure where to start. The resources explore volunteer options and tips for success. AR
Greatschools - 10 Tips for Classroom Volunteers
http://www.greatschools.net/improvement/volunteering/10-tips-for-classroom-volunteers.gs?content=365&page=allVolunteering can help keep parents informed about what is happening at school, and can also help the teacher. This site offers tips to make volunteer time fun and successful. AR
Articles:
Burke, M. A. (2001). Recruiting and using volunteers in meaningful ways in secondary schools. NASSP Bulletin, 85, 627, 46-52.
This article examines types and levels of parent involvement in middle and high schools. It offers strategies for recruiting volunteers, since parent involvement typically declines as students get older and gain more autonomy. The article also discusses how parent volunteers at schools can nurture academic success. ARDillon, N. (2008). The parent trap. American School Board Journal, 195, 2, 30-31.
This article discusses the need for parents to take an active role in schools. A school in Tennessee worked with parents to translate organizational materials into Spanish, among other projects. The PTO of the school held a number of free events in the evenings in order to recruit parent volunteers. The article also discusses the importance of using parents to improve the educational outcomes of the students. ARFrankel, H. Voluntary aided. (2009, May 15). Times Educational Supplement, special section.
This article discusses what schools can do to encourage parent participation at school, and how volunteering promotes social cohesion. The article tells how some local companies allow their employees time to volunteer, and what some schools have done to improve literacy through tutoring by parent volunteers. ARMachen, S. M., Wilson, J. D., & Notar, C. E. (2005). Parental involvement in the classroom. Journal of Instructional Psychology, 32, 1, 13-16.
This article states that parental involvement in schools is an important factor in pushing school systems toward higher standards. The article address the amount of time that parents can and should spend in the classroom, and the type of contact that they have with students and teachers. In addition, the article states that school leaders must develop parent-involvement programs and identify practices and policies that encourage parent trust and involvement in the process of schooling. ARPorter DeCusati, C. L., & Johnson, J. E. (2004). Parents as classroom volunteers and kindergarten students' emergent reading skills. Journal of Educational Research, 97, 5, 235-246.
This article investigates the effect of parent volunteers on kindergarten children's emergent literacy performance. The authors studies a group of children in a PA school and how they responded to parent-lead small-group language enrichment sessions. Based on the results of the study, the authors recommend working with parents in the classroom. The authors also interviewed the children about their reactions to having parents in the classroom. ARBooks:
Batey, C. S. (1996). Parents are lifesavers: A handbook for parent involvement in schools. Newbury Park, CA: Corwin Press.
The author offers real-life skills and tips that schools can use to turn parents into active participants in their childrens' education. ARBoult, B. (2006). 176 ways to involve parents: Practical strategies for partnering with families. Newbury Park, CA: Corwin Press.
It is important to align school district and school volunteer activities. This book presents ready-to-use ideas and strategies to involve parents in the school community. ARFunkhouser, J., & Gonzalez, M. R. (1997). Family involvement in children's education: Successful local approaches: An idea book. Darby, PA: Diane Publishing Co.
This book describes how some schools and their communities have overcome barriers to forge strong school-family relationships. The book is based on case studies of 20 successful education programs in the U.S. ARMandel, S. (2008). The parent-teacher partnership: How to work together for student achievement. Chicago, IL: Chicago Review Press.
This books offers a chapter about volunteering. The chapers discusses the pros and cons of parent volunteers, and tips for both parents and teachers for how to make volunteering successful. ARThe immediate and long-term impact that the helicopter parenting style can have on a student’s experience in school. AB
Websites:
Baby Zone - Are you a helicopter parent? by Stephanie Elliot
http://www.babyzone.com/mom_dad/quiz/helicopter-parentTake the quiz offered at this website to find out if you're hovering too much already. Along with blog entries that develop an open conversation about the potential pitfalls of being an overly involved parent, this site helps parents to determine if they are headed in that direction with their toddler aged children already. Acknowledging that you are on the road to being a helicopter parent may help to curb that behavior or enhance it. AB
New York Times - Lisa Belkin blog from March 4, 2009
http://parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/03/04/in-defense-of-helicopter-parents/Lisa Belkin has several articles and blogspots on the Internet relating to the issue of helicopter parenting and all the good, bad and ugly that it conjures up. In this blog area she explores the questions: Are you a helicopter parent? Are you wary of becoming one? And does any of this new thinking make you feel any better? On this blog she cites several authorities including psychologists, tenured teachers, and social historians. There is a reference to both the pros and cons of this parenting style. AB
Surf Net Parents - Pros and cons of helicopter parenting
http://www.surfnetparents.com/pros_and_cons_of_helicopter_parenting-6033.htmlThis is a website that offers a specific article on the pros and cons of helicopter parenting as it relates to school aged children, along with other several resources & information links regarding the general upbringing of children in today’s society. Some of the content areas included on the site consist of: parenting kids, parenting teens, helping with homework, relationships, and family health issues. This site is a good resource for a myriad of parenting issues. AB
Articles:
Gibbs, N. (2005, February 13). Parents behaving badly, inside the new classroom power struggle: What teachers say about pushy moms and dads who drive them crazy. Time.
An exemplary view of the impact hovering /helicopter parents on the classroom experience, this article emphasizes the importance of the relationship that exists between parents, children and the teacher. Teachers explain through a series of examples of actual events, the challenges they face in trying to educate students that have helicopter parents. In this article the author and teachers describe additional attributes of hovering parents that classifies them further into such categories as ‘aggressive advocates’, ‘public defenders’ and ‘culture warriors’. ABKrache, D. (2008). Back to school: How to ground a 'helicopter parent'. CNN.com. Retrieved from http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/personal/08/13/helicopter.parents/index.html.
This article examines the long-term effects of helicopter parenting. Krache discusses how micromanaging every aspect of their children’s lives stifles development of decision making skills, provides a false sense of security, can promote rebellion, promotes a sense of entitlement and having a parent that just can’t let go can create embarrassment for the child. Through conversations with a variety of sources, Krache mostly explores the negative aspects related to helicopter parenting and offers only a little information on how to reap benefits from the hovering parenting style. ABKrane, E. (2009). What is a helicopter parent, and do you qualify? Lifescript.com. Retrieved from
http://www.lifescript.com/Life/Family/Parenting/What_Is_A_Helicopter_Parent_And_Do_You_Qualify.aspx
How can you tell if you’re a helicopter parent? This website offers a series of questions for you to ponder to help you identify if you are or are not a helicopter type parent. The site explains that, “helicopter parenting brings a sense of security to some parents, who want to keep their children close as long as possible, if not indefinitely. Micromanaging their life is one way they can maintain a close relationship, while appearing to be a saint. It’s a win-win situation, in the parents’ eyes.” ABSussy. (2007). Helicopter parents hover too closely over their kids' lives, say experts: Helicopter parenting is a growing trend in the U.S. with potentially negative consequences. Associated Content. Retrieved from http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/390662/helicopter_parents_hover_too_closely.html?cat=4
“If that's true, and the number of helicopter parents really is increasing as experts assert, it may have ramifications for everyone involved, including not just parents and their kids, but educators and employers, as well.” This excerpt from the article adequately summarizes the author’s suggestion that the impact of helicopter parenting on a child extends beyond the parent-child relationship and affects the relationships between the parent, child and teacher. Additionally, this article cites several authorities regarding the positive and negative effects of the hovering parent upon their child. ABWong, W. (2008). The power of play: How spontaneous, imaginative activities lead to happier, healthier children. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 47, 9.
This is an article that includes a review of the book The Power of Play by David Elkind. In Wong’s article there is reference to the importance of a parent’s involvement with their children during the formative years. There is a connection between the behavior and attitudes of the parent and how they interact with their child that directs the development and acquisition of skills by the child. The notion that helicopter parenting can negatively impact the mental growth of the child from the very start of development is touched upon. ABBooks:
Cline, F., & Fay, J. (1990). Parenting with love and logic: Teaching children responsibility. Bedford, OH: Pinon Press.
This is the book that is credited with defining ‘helicopter parent’. It is lauded as premier guide for providing practical parenting skills. The authors offer many strategies for applying their suggested methods, called ‘parenting pearls’, to actual day to day situations between parent and child. This book helps parents teach their children about responsibility and the logic of life by solving their own problems and providing skills to help them cope in the real world. ABElkind, D. (2007). The power of play: How spontaneous, imaginative activities lead to happier, healthier children. Cambridge, MA: De Capo Press.
In his book, Elkind expresses his concern that parents have misconceptions about how young children learn. He explores parent-child relationships and includes helicopter/hovering parents in his discussion. His argument is founded on the notion that child-directed play addresses developmentally appropriate needs. Children will naturally explore those phenomena that interest them and they will do this in their own time and on their own terms. Influence of premature structured learning or overbearing guidance by parents disrupts this natural learning ability and may negatively impact a child’s development. ABWebsites:
Families on-the-go - The overscheduled child, by Dr. Bhumi Upadhyay
http://www.familiesonthego.org/Health-And-Wellness/the-overscheduled-child.htmDr. Upadhyay explains how stress and depression are related to children that are involved in too many after school activities. The importance of imaginative play are stressed as being equally important in the development of a child. TD
News from the University of Missouri - Overscheduled children under stress, by Lisa Wallace
http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/ext/showall.asp?story_num=4806&iln=47Lisa Wallace offers tips to parents on how to build a solid foundation for their children’s academic learning environment. "When you find yourself drowning in carpools and a crowded calendar, you're not alone. But be realistic about what is important. Really look at your family's schedule, then ease up and scale back so your child isn't overscheduled." (Wallace, 2009) TDAmerican Academy of Pediatrics - How can we help our children handle the stresses of everyday life?
http://www.aap.org/publiced/BK5_Stress.htmThis site identifies where stresses can occur in a child’s life. Current changes in family structure and financial concerns cause children to be enrolled in many after school activities. The AAP suggest that parents believe the children are not aware of the stresses that they feel and can adapt easily to new activities. However, children are often overwhelmed with a need to achieve and never get the down time that is needed for complete growth and development. TDAssociated Content - Six benefits of after-school activities, by Charles Davidson
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/39190/six_benefits_of_afterschool_activities.html?singlepage=true&cat=4 Charles Davidson gives examples of how after-school activities can benefit the child. When done well, after school activities can promote physical activity, creativity, stress relief, self-confidence, team spirit and time management skills. TDArticles:
Cosden, M. & Morrison, G. (2004). The effects of homework programs and after-school activities on school success. Theory into Practice, 43.
This article explains the risk and protective factors associated with after school activities and homework programs. Advantages include how after school programs increase school achievement and improve social skills when directly related to the school environment. Disadvantages are also present, as parents may not be involved in their children’s school experience if they expect the activity to take the place of the parent. TDElkind, D. & Cloud, J. (2007). The overscheduled child? Chronicle of Higher Education. 53, 28, B4.
This article offers several viewpoints to answer the question of whether or not U.S. children are overscheduled. John Cloud finds little evidence that many activities are hurting children and considers the question to be directed more at the adult’s issues and not the child. David Elkind and the American Academy of Pediatrics take a different view, and suggest that children have lost valuable play time to rigors of academic work and too many scheduled activities. TDBooks:
Rosenfeld, A. & Wise, N. (2001). The over-scheduled child: Avoiding the hyper-parenting trap. Boston: St. Martin's Griffin.
This book provides a wake up call to parents everywhere. Our society today provides a great amount of pressure to keep our children involved in as many activities as the day is long. Drs. Rosenfeld and Wise offer some different advice and encourage parents to spend quality time with their children instead of the over achieving and fast paced life that are more often the norm. TDPierce, A. (2009). Ships without a shore. Transaction Publishers.
Coming out in August 2009, this book is sure to provide you with the latest information on how to provide a nurturing home for your child. Anne Pierce explains how changing trends in America may be contributing to weaker foundations for our children to grow upon. This book takes and honest look at how the lessons from sports and after school activities have become more important than the traditional maternal and nurturing instincts of the past. TDYouTube Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXkay5NUTHk Joe Bruzzese explains how children in middle school adapt to after-school activities. Strategies are offered on how to handle the schedule and identify warning signs of when your child is overscheduled. TD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYWW36m_cW4 Momversations about overscheduled children: Three mothers of young pre-school and early elementary aged children talk about their experiences with activities their children are involved in. Concerns are expressed about how other mothers will view them, financial concerns and what the benefits to the programs are. TD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7JWCmzKK34 New York Now anchor Cathleen Trigg-Jones speaks with a panel of experts discussing the subject of overscheduling children. Dr. Christine Doyle, director of Clinical Services at the Albert Ellis Institute, Professor of Psychology at CUNY and Author, Dr. William Craine and mother, Kamyra Harding discuss the effects of many activities on children. Overscheduling occurs as early as the first birthday and continues throughout the years of a child’s education. Especially in the New York area, there is push to succeed and over-achieve in hopes for a better future. The advantage of having free-time and using their minds to create time-filling activities are stressed as important factors in a child’s emotional well being. TD
The conversation is continued here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTv7H9sIaEQ
Websites:
Workingmother.com
http://www.workingmother.comThis website is sponsored by Working Mother Magazine, and presents information on a large array of issues relating to mothers who work outside the home. Relevant issues such as teens and technology and how to best care for a child with special needs are discussed and there are a variety of forums and blogs where mothers can interact with each other and gain support. A list of resources to assist the working mother is provided as well as conferences that are being held in different areas. MDFamilyeducation - Working mothers
http://life.familyeducation.com/mothers/working-parents/34415.htmlInformation relating to children of varying ages and grade levels is provided on this site. Users can access printables of homework sheets to assist their children on specific grade-appropriate topics, they can utilize tools such as a Multiple Intelligence Screening Tool and a Reading Readiness Screening Tool and can discuss other school related topics with other working mothers through blogs and forums. MDAbout.com - Stay-at-home parents
http://www.homeparents.about.comThis site addresses many topics related to stay at home mothers and fathers. It's 'Education and School Tips' section addresses issues such as recognizing Dyslexia, behavior issues and homework hassles. It also tackles issues such as enrolling one's child in year round school and what to do when a teacher suggests that a child be tested for a learning disability. Through blogs, parents can interact with each other and share ideas. MDMainStreetMom.com - Stay-at-home Moms
http://www.mainstreetmom.comThis website is geared towards stay-at-home mothers who want to remain current on all topics relating to child care, education, parenting and others. Issues such as talking to your child about difficult subjects, and ensuring that your child becomes a life-long reader are discussed in the 'Teaching' section of this site. MDArticles:
Baker, K., Beck, C.A., Camp, K., Censullo, E., Collins, C., Deitrick, S., et al. (2003). The relationship between maternal employment and perceptions of child, spouse and self. (Report Number CG032145). Collegeville, PA: Ursinus College (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 472 514).
This article investigates whether maternal employment has any effect on the ways in which parents view their children's personalities, dispositions and behaviors. Findings of the study conducted in the article reveal no difference in parents' perceptions of their childrens' academic achievement or level of self-esteem, but reveal that children whose mothers stay at home are perceived as being more anxious and more manipulative, especially in the case of boys and somewhat more depressed in the case of girls. MDGoldberg, W.A., Greenberger, E., & Nagel, S.K. (1996). Employment and achievement: Mothers' work involvement in relation to children's achievement behaviors and mothers' parenting behaviors. Child Development, 67, 1512-1527.
This article studies the correlation between mothers' total weekly work hours in relation to children's achievement and behaviors. The results indicate that as weekly work hours increase, daughters' grades and overall achievement motivation improve. However, as weekly work hours of the mother increase, the work habits and ego control of sons decreased, indicating that the presence of maternal employment was beneficial to daughters of working mothers, but was detrimental to sons. MDGoldberg, W.A., Prause, J., & Lucas-Thompson, R. (2008). Maternal employment and children's achievement in context: A meta-analysis of four decades of research. Psychological Bulletin, 134, 1, 77-108.
An analysis of 68 prior studies is utilized to determine whether children's achivement differs depending on whether their mothers work outside the home. Overall results show that mothers who work provide a positive role model for daughters and allow their daughters more independence than stay-at-home mothers might. This lack of maternal supervision however, yields some negative results for sons, who tend to act out more when the mother is not at home to monitor their behaviors. Maternal employment is shown to have no effect on overall student achievement. MDHarvey. E. (1999). Short-term and long-term effects of early parental employment on children of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. Developmental Psychology, 35, 2, 445-459.
This long term study attempts to discover whether early maternal employment (before children reached the age of 9), has any impact on later development and functioning. The findings are that children with working mothers exhibit slightly lower cognitive development and achievement levels from the ages of 7-9, but by age 10 and beyond, no significant differences can be found. There is some support for the idea that early maternal employment affects children's development positively due to the increase in family income that it provides. MDBooks:
Carreon, S. (1996). Women and work: A handbook (Garland Reference Library of Social Science, V. 679). New York: Routledge.
This is a collection of 150 original articles that examine issues relating to working mothers. It is a reference guide to be used by professors, librarians, guidance counselors, students and working mothers. Factors such as the effects of maternal employment and child care are covered in depth. MDSchlessinger, L. (2009). In praise of stay-at-home moms. New York: Harper Collins.
Advice and support is provided for women who have left the workplace to be stay-at-home mothers by the author, who is a licensed marriage and family therapist. The book expresses the positive effects that remaining at home can have on children and the family as a whole. MD*All web links were checked and current as of July 12, 2009. All citations are in APA format. *
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